Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) is a modern, fast, and flexible way to resolve legal conflicts using digital technologies. In the era of globalization and remote work, physical presence is no longer necessary to settle a dispute. ODR combines elements of mediation, negotiation, and arbitration through online platforms. This service is particularly valuable for those who are abroad or for whom physical meetings are inconvenient due to time and cost constraints. In Georgia, where digital services are developing rapidly, ODR is becoming an increasingly popular tool for e-commerce, small claims, and cross-border disputes. Legal.ge offers access to specialists who possess the techniques for managing remote processes and utilize secure communication channels.
What Does Online Dispute Resolution Cover?
ODR services involve transferring the full cycle of dispute resolution into a digital format. It is not just "talking on Zoom," but a structured process. Key components include:
- E-Mediation: Conducting mediation sessions via video conferencing, electronic exchange of documents, and remote signing of agreements.
- Electronic Negotiations: Automated or facilitated negotiations where parties exchange offers through specialized platforms or secure email.
- Cross-Border Disputes: Resolving conflicts between parties located in different countries (e.g., a Georgian exporter and a foreign buyer).
- E-Commerce Disputes: Disputes between online stores and consumers regarding product quality, return policies, and refunds.
- Digital Arbitration: Simplified arbitration proceedings online, where the arbitrator makes a decision based on submitted electronic evidence.
Real-World Scenarios Where You Need ODR
Imagine you are a freelancer in Georgia who completed work for a foreign company but did not receive payment. Suing in a foreign court is expensive and complex. By engaging an ODR specialist, it is possible to negotiate online and receive payment without litigation. Another example: an expat wants to agree on divorce details with a spouse remaining in Georgia without traveling back. Online mediation allows them to agree on everything via video call and sign documents electronically. Also, in e-commerce, a dispute between a customer and a shop over damaged goods can be resolved quickly through an online platform without hiring a lawyer.
Georgian Legal Framework
The development of ODR in Georgia is supported by the "Law of Georgia on Mediation", which explicitly allows mediation processes to be conducted remotely via electronic communication means. Also important is the "Law on Electronic Documents and Electronic Trust Services", which grants legal force to qualified electronic signatures. This means that an agreement signed online is just as valid as one signed on paper. Furthermore, the "Civil Procedure Code of Georgia" incorporates elements of electronic proceedings, simplifying the submission of ODR results to court. Regarding data protection, the "Law on Personal Data Protection" ensures the confidentiality of video and audio communications.
The Process Step-by-Step
The ODR process begins with finding a specialist on Legal.ge and booking an online consultation. The parties agree on a communication platform (e.g., Zoom, Teams, or specialized ODR software). In the preparatory stage, identification and connection checks are performed. Then online sessions begin. The mediator uses "breakout rooms" for individual caucuses. Documents are shared via secure cloud services. Upon reaching an agreement, an electronic document is drafted, which parties sign with an electronic signature (or print, sign, and scan if permitted by law). The final document is sent to the parties via email.
Why Choose a Specialist on Legal.ge?
In the digital world, trust is crucial. Legal.ge verifies the specialists registered on the platform, guaranteeing that your online mediator or negotiator is a real, qualified person. Our specialists possess the technical skills to ensure the process runs smoothly and securely. Save travel costs and time — resolve your dispute from home with the help of Legal.ge.
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